PAK vs BAN: Karachi Stadium Renovation Moves Second Test to Rawalpindi

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was compelled to relocate the second Test matchup between Bangladesh and Pakistan to Rawalpindi due to the ongoing renovations at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.

Due to the ruling, the series will now be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with the first Test scheduled to begin on Wednesday. On August 30, the second Test will take place.

The PCB had intended to hold the second Test there without any fans, however, the stadium in Karachi is now undergoing renovations in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan the following year.

But the PCB said on Sunday that they have now been informed by construction experts that the continuing repair work would cause 'noise pollution,' which might annoy the players.

The PCB added in a statement, 'In addition, the dust from the construction work could also affect the players', officials', broadcasters', and media's health and well-being.'

According to the PCB, it was important for the stadium to be operationally ready for the Champions Trophy on schedule, hence it did not want to halt the refurbishment work being done there. The Champions Trophy will be hosted by Pakistan starting on February 19, 2025.

Additionally, the PCB stated that before changing the location of the second Test, it spoke with all relevant parties, including the Bangladesh Cricket Board.

In October, Karachi is scheduled to host one of the three Test matches against England; nevertheless, the PCB has said that it would maintain tight collaboration with the architects and construction specialists.

The PCB stated, 'At this point, we will not like to speculate.' 'While keeping the England and Wales Cricket Board informed, (we) will continue to work closely with the architects and construction experts on the safe and secure hosting of the match.'

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